Wheat Ridge

Wheat Ridge is a suburb on the west side Denver with a population of over 30,000 people. Founded as a resting spot for travelers heading to the Gold Rush in California, the area still offers a place to rest and lots of outdoor recreation. There are more than 250-acres of conserved lands, 19 developed parks, and four lakes. The wheat caught the traveler's eye as it grew on the ridges, which is where the name came from. The area is also known for fields of carnations, the cinnamon-scented carnation was even invented here in the mid-1900s. Plus, the region has more sunshine than Miami Beach or San Diego with over 300 sunny days every year. This draws a lot of retirees, so Wheat Ridge isn't a place with an exciting nightlife. However, it's a wonderful resting spot for you to explore Denver and the surrouding areas.